Prayagraj: As Prayagraj gears up for the Mahakumbh Mela 2025, spiritual leader “Rudraksha Wale Baba” Gitanand Giri shared insights into his 12-year-long spiritual journey. A dedicated follower of Lord Shiva, Giri’s rigorous “tapasya” began at the Allahabad Ardha Kumbh Mela and is set to conclude at the next Ardha Kumbh Mela, six years from now.
In an exclusive interview with ANI, Gitanand Giri revealed details about his unique spiritual practice. “I have had this ‘tapasya’ for twelve years. Lord Shiv loves ‘Rudraksha,’ and my journey is for the benefit of Sanatana Dharma and the country,” he said.
Giri began his practice with an 11 kg rudraksha garland that has now grown to 45 kg. He has committed to finishing 1.25 lakh rudraksha beads, strung into 925 malas, as part of his spiritual endeavor.
PM Modi’s Contributions to Mahakumbh 2025 Preparations
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Prayagraj on Friday to inaugurate several projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and connectivity in preparation for the Mahakumbh. These initiatives include:
- Road and Rail Upgrades: Ten new Road Over Bridges (RoBs) or flyovers, riverside roadways, and permanent ghats.
- Infrastructure Boosts: Key projects in electricity and drinking water to ensure smooth arrangements for the massive influx of pilgrims.
- Temple Corridors: Opening of iconic corridors such as the Hanuman Mandir Corridor, Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor, Shringverpur Dham Corridor, and Akshayvat Corridor to promote spiritual tourism.
- Kumbh Sah’AI’yak Chatbot: A digital initiative to provide real-time guidance, news, and information about the Mahakumbh Mela 2025.
Schedule of Key Events
The Mahakumbh Mela, held once every 12 years, will commence on January 13, 2025, and conclude on February 26, 2025. The primary royal bathing ceremonies (Shahi Snan) are scheduled as follows:
- January 14: Makar Sankranti
- January 29: Mauni Amavasya
- February 3: Basant Panchami
These grand events are expected to draw millions of devotees, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
The combined efforts of spiritual leaders like Gitanand Giri and the government’s infrastructural upgrades signify the magnitude and spiritual significance of Mahakumbh 2025, ensuring an enriching experience for all devotees.
